Can A Chiropractor Help With A Slipped Disk?

Virtually everyone has heard of a slipped disk. There is a severe amount of pain associated with one so for those who have ever experienced one, it is not something that you are likely to forget. It is also not something that you can allow to linger since it can cause extreme and permanent damage if the situation is not rectified in a timely manner. Fortunately, a chiropractor can work to alleviate the intensity and duration of the pain until the condition has been properly corrected.

What Is A Slipped Disk?

The label of having a "slipped disk" is incorrect since the disk has not actually "slipped". The disks of the spine are the pads that separate and provide a cushion between the bones that make up the spine itself. Disks are fixed in their positions and cannot be moved. However, the softer portion located in the center of the rings can become bulged and extend beyond the outer rings of the spine.

When these areas bulge, they impede on the surrounding tissue and, most importantly, the nerves. This is where the pain originates. Pain can also be caused by a tear.

Where They Can Occur

These types of injuries can occur anywhere within the spine. The most common areas associated with this type of injury are the lower back and the neck. Injuries are usually a result of over-exertion of physical activity or automobile accidents. Even a simple movement can catch the spine off guard and cause injury.

As we age, our bones naturally lose some of their density so this also increases the possibility of injury. Although women can also suffer from them, these types of injuries usually occur in men.

Symptoms

Since the spine is the central highway for nerves running throughout the body, an injury to it can produce discomfort that affects the surrounding area of the spine, the arms or legs and even major organs that are supplied by these specific nerves. The location of the pain depends on which disc has been injured.

Neck discs: The discomfort can manifest as a tingling or numbness, dull ache, a burning sensation or a dull or throbbing pain. Areas that will be affected include the neck, shoulder, upper back around the shoulder blades, arms, hands and/or fingers. There can also be muscle weakness.

Back discs: The same types of pain affecting the lower back, hips, legs and feet.